Fighting Asian hornets in Pontresina
Have you discovered an Asian hornet's nest? We'll be on site quickly! Call now - Daily Mon-Sun 07:00-21:30. Contact us now: 058 510 22 54
Having the Asian hornet's nest removed
Vespa velutina, a species of hornet hailing from South-East Asia, has rapidly spread to Switzerland and surrounding regions through invasive means. Though they do not pose a direct threat to humans, these hornets have garnered a reputation for preying on honey bees, sparking fear among beekeepers. A small group of these hornets are capable of eliminating an entire bee colony in just a few hours. If you have discovered a hornet's nest on your house, patio, shed, or in your blind box, contact our experts for hornet nest removal in Pontresina!
Use the uncomplicated telephone service of the Hornet experts in Pontresina and simply inform us at 058 510 22 54, we will be on site quickly so that you and everyone in your area feel completely safe again.
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Appearance of the Asian hornet
Here are some characteristics that distinguish the Asian hornet:
1. Size: The queen can reach a length of about 3 cm, while the workers are slightly smaller and measure about 2.5 cm.
2. Color: The Asian hornet has a dark body that is almost black, with a yellow stripe at the back of the abdomen. Its face is orange-yellow.
3. Wings: The wings are dark and almost smoky gray.
4. Legs: The hornet has yellow tips on its legs, which is a striking distinguishing feature when it flies.
5. Nest: The Asian hornet's nest is often high in the trees, but it can also be found underground or in tall structures such as chimneys. It has an oval shape and is made of chewed wood, which gives the hornet a papery texture.
It is important to distinguish the Asian hornet from the European hornet (Vespa crabro), which is more harmless and a natural part of the European fauna. If you suspect you have found an Asian hornet nest near you in Pontresina, you should report this to the local authorities, or using our reporting form, as they can spread quickly and be harmful to bees and other insects. To avoid being attacked by the flying inhabitants, you should hire a professional pest controller such as the Hornet Experts Pontresina. We can identify the nest beyond doubt and take further steps to remove the Asian hornets professionally.
News about the Asian hornet in Pontresina
10.12.2024 Western Switzerland: Killer hornet eats bees
This year, the Asian killer hornet has significantly expanded its territory, particularly in western Switzerland. This expansion represents a serious threat to local bee populations, as these hornets mainly hunt bees. The potential impacts could be serious. In addition to threatening bee numbers, the hornet also poses a risk to individuals who are allergic to its venom.
06.12.2024 Serious concerns about the bee population!
Beekeepers throughout various regions of Europe are facing attacks on their hives. A small cluster of Asian hornets has the ability to destroy a whole bee colony within a few hours. This results in a reduction of pollinator populations, which could have significant impacts on pollination, local vegetation, and agricultural production.
02.12.2024 Asian hornet doesn't just eat bees!
Here’s the danger it presents to insects!
In addition to preying on beetles and flies, honeybees are a major component of the Asian hornet’s diet, comprising up to 85 percent of what it consumes. As a result, the Asian hornet not only causes issues for fruit growers but also exacerbates the already severe threat to our bee populations.
28.11.2024 How did the Asian hornet get to Europe?
The Asian hornet probably arrived in Europe by chance. It swiftly expanded across France and surrounding countries. Its ability to adapt to different environments, combined with the lack of natural predators in Europe, has allowed it to spread quickly. One nest can produce several hundred new queens in just one season.
Asian Hornet Reporting Form
Please fill out all required fields and submit the form.
Help us!
If you discover an Asian hornet or a nest of this invasive species in Pontresina, it is of the utmost importance that you report it immediately. The Asian hornet is not only dangerous to humans, but also poses a serious threat to native bee populations and the ecological balance in Switzerland.
Why is it important to report the find?
With its successful colonization in specific areas, the Asian hornet exerts a significant influence on the native insect population, honey bees being particularly affected. Preying on bees, these hornets contribute to a decrease in pollinator populations, thereby disrupting the natural balance of local plant life and agricultural sectors. By reporting sightings, experts can react quickly, remove the hornets or their nests and thus prevent the spread of this invasive species.
Notification form for sightings
Our aim is to regulate the burgeoning population of the Asian hornet in Switzerland, while ensuring the preservation of our native insect species. We kindly request that you report any suspicions or sightings using our specialized reporting form. Your cooperation is essential in enabling us to promptly address this threat and limit the proliferation of this harmful species within our ecosystems.
Your contribution is crucial in the fight against the Asian hornet in Pontresina. Together we can protect nature and maintain the balance of our ecosystems;
Thank you for your vigilant attention and your commitment to protecting our environment.
How dangerous is the Asian hornet?
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is a predatory insect that originated in Asia and has spread in recent years to various parts of Europe, including France and now also Switzerland and in Pontresina. Although it poses a threat to honey bees and native biodiversity, it is generally no more dangerous to humans than other wasp species. Nevertheless, there are some aspects to be aware of:
1. Threat to honey bees: The Asian hornet preys on honey bees, threatening native bee populations. A decline in bees can have a negative impact on pollination and thus on local flora and agricultural production.
2. Stings: As with other wasp and hornet species, the stings of the Asian hornet can also be painful. For most people, the stings are unpleasant but not dangerous. However, people who are allergic to wasp or hornet stings can suffer a severe allergic reaction, which in the worst case can lead to anaphylactic shock.
3. Aggressiveness: Although the Asian hornet is not necessarily more aggressive towards humans than other wasp species, it can become aggressive if it feels threatened, especially near its nest.
4. Ecological effects: Apart from the direct effects on honey bees, the spread of the Asian hornet can also disturb the ecological balance by affecting the populations of other insects.
It is vital to make a clear distinction between the Asian hornet and the Asian giant hornet (*Vespa mandarinia*) to avoid any misunderstandings. The giant hornet, also called the "killer hornet," is considerably larger and presents a potentially greater threat to humans due to its potent venom and the size of its sting.
If you have discovered a nest, call us immediately: 058 510 22 54
Our hornet professionals in Pontresina are certified by the VSS.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asian Hornets in Pontresina
With stings that may lead to severe or even lethal outcomes, the Asian hornet is considered a much more dangerous insect when compared to the majority of other hornet species.
With an impressive size of up to 3 cm, the Asian hornet is a sizeable stinging insect. Its slim, onyx body exhibits a dazzling array of vibrant stripes in shades of orange, yellow, and black, composing a marvelous design.
The Asian hornet is usually characterized as shy and passive, but in the face of threats and cornering, it can exhibit a surge of activity and aggression to defend itself.
Humans should be cautious of the Asian hornet's venom, which is highly poisonous and capable of causing both pain and allergic reactions through its bites.
Due to its venomous sting, the Asian hornet poses a significant risk. The pain it inflicts exceeds that caused by other wasps, making it more dangerous, and allergic reactions may ensue.
When it comes to reporting an Asian hornet, it is essential to contact either a regional officer who specializes in wild bee protection or an authorized agency connected to the responsible Ministry of Agriculture.
Safeguarding against attacks and curbing the dissemination of Asian hornets requires vigilant reporting, taking into account their prominent territoriality and aggressiveness.
In Switzerland, professional hornet control becomes necessary when dealing with Asian hornets. It is advisable to contact a reputable pest control service for targeted intervention.
Absence of protected status necessitates strict monitoring of the Asian hornet's population to curb their potential spread.
When in hibernation, the Asian hornet can be found either in groups or as solitary beings, occupying the corners of walls, structures, garden sheds, incidental houses, or tree hollows.
Would you like more information about Asian hornets? Then take a look at our FAQ's about Asian hornets.
Private inquiry form
For an uncomplicated request to remove an Asian hornet's nest, please use our contact form for private individuals.
Real estate inquiry form
Use our property management order form to request the removal of an Asian hornet's nest.
